Paphos

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Shortened history of the castle:

Paphos castle was originally a Byzantine fort built to protect the harbour.

It was rebuilt by the Lusignans in the 13th century, dismantled by the Venetians in 1570 during the Ottoman invasion and rebuilt by the Ottomans after they captured the island in the 16th century.

During its long history, the Paphos Castle was used, as well as for protection, as prison cells, and even as a storage area for salt when the island was a British colony. In 1935 it was declared ancient monument.

The castle as it survives today is relatively well preserved and has a rectangular shape. Its outer dimensions are 33m length and 17m width. The castle has two storeys and is 21 m high.

Many cultural events take place in the square just in front of the castle, while in September the Paphos Aphrodite Festival which presents a different opera every year staged here by world famous artists with the castle building usually acting as part of the scenery.

Opening times and additionnal information:

Open Daily:
08am - 5pm (November-March)
08am - 6pm (April, May, September, October)
08am - 7.30pm (June-August)

Entrance: €1.71 (CY £1.00)